Monday, March 08, 2010

March 8th: Phil. 1:3

I thank my God ever time I remember you

I thought I might try to write a short "thought for the day" based on something from Philippians as we study it at church. Whether it follows logically through the letter or not I don't know. It's just an experiment.

This phrase stands out in the early verses of chapter one. We could so easily look at the content of Paul's prayer or focus on the nature of the gospel in which they, and we, partner. But it's good to stop and ask ourselves a simple question: Do we give thanks often enough for the people with whom God has surrounded us? Be honest now, are you able to say that you give thanks every time you remember everyone?

Giving thanks is an act of the will, sometimes more difficult than others. Some people are just difficult and giving thanks for them and the challenges they bring is hard and we don't want to do it. But do it we ought, do it we must.

It is far easier to moan than to give thanks, the words come far more easily. We're all pretty good at pointing out what's wrong and who's to blame. So try giving thanks, even for the critics and the problem causers, the difficult and the demanding. Give thanks that it matters enough to them to raise the questions. Give thanks that they too can know freedom and release. Whatever you do when you remember them, pray God's blessing upon them.

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My Therapy Practice

About Me

I've served as a church leader since graduating from college in 1990, but stepped out of full-time leadership to explore missional church life. Before that I was involved in R&D for a large gas company. University days were spent in Cardiff.

I now work for myself as a Sports & Remedial Massage Therapist and a Personal Trainer. I'm also a qualified tennis coach!

I'm still committed to being a follower of Jesus, even though most people think I've left the church!

I'm married to Anne and have a daughter Ally who is married to David. I have a growing passion for simplifying church!

quotables

There is no future in frustrationCourage isn't the absence of fear; it's moving ahead in spite of your fearWhen we will not provide a place for the indwelling Christ, all that is left is the frenzied agenda of our hassled discipleship